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March 6, 1997 <br />Orvelle Iwen <br />Page 2 <br /> <br />Officials would like this bridge replaced, the Township Officials should make a formal request to the <br />County and North Cass Water Resource district. I did review the responses from Wiser Township <br />to the recent annual County surveys and didn't note any requests for this bridge ~o be replaced. <br /> <br />Possibility of lowering taxes proportionally for closed roads or eliminated bridges: Current state <br />statutes would make it difficult or impossible to adjust property taxes in proportion to roads closed <br />or constructed. Currently, County property taxes remain constant regardless of number of roads or <br />bridges in the area. About 3% of the total property tax bill is allocated to the Highway Department <br />for roads and bridges. The concept of partially funding bridges with assessments to properties <br />benefited has been discussed, but met with overwhelming opposition. Therefore, I do not anticipate <br />that the County will pursue this matter. In summary, I am not aware of a practical method of <br />lowering property taxes in an area to offset added costs due to road or bridge closures. <br /> <br />Your concerns are important to us. If you would like to further discuss these or other concerns, <br />don't hesitate to contact me. <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />Keith D. Berndt <br /> <br />CC: <br /> <br />Cass County Commission <br />Erie Township Chairman <br />Wiser Township Chairman <br /> <br /> <br />